Who were the Thugs of Hindustan?

SUMMARY

Thugs of the latest Aamir Khan release Thugs of Hindustan may hardly seem real, but existence of thugs, indeed, is a reality. There are various stories about origin of the thugs. Historians claim that they have been around for at least six hundred years. Some trace their origin to British administration, others to the times before the colonial rule. The word ‘thugs’ refers to organized gangs of professional robbers and murderers who mainly operated on highways. They were also called ‘phaansigar’ (one who uses a noose to kill), mainly because they strangled their target with handkerchief before robbing. Thugs were known by their occupation -- thuggery, and not religion. In fact, many a thugs captured during the British administration were Muslims. The thuggees, however, consider themselves to be children of Goddess Kali (Bhawaani). Their version of mythology traces their origin to the Goddess’s fight with demon Raktabij. Here’s their version of the story, in rhymes and illustrations:

By Rajkamal Aich Nov 13, 2018 6:26:18 AM IST (Updated)